The French-proposed "pact" to salvage New Caledonia's beleaguered nickel industry is still in limbo as the local Congress has decided to re-examine the whole document through a "special committee".
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The French Senate endorsed a move from the French government to allow French citizens to vote at local elections provided they have been residing for at least an uninterrupted ten years.
Demonstrations have been held in New Caledonia - with more protests expected - from both pro- and anti-independence supporters after the French Senate endorsed a constitutional amendment bill to "unfreeze" the French Pacific territory's electoral roll.
The French Senate endorsed a move from the French government to allow French citizens to vote at local elections provided they have been residing for at least an uninterrupted ten years.